Biblical language permeates our conversation. Without the study of the Bible in our schools, we run the risk of creating an avoidable deficiency in American education -- rearing a generation of cultural illiterates who will have been deprived of familiarity with the foundational document of Western civilization, the Bible.

On December 20, 2005, Jay Gorania, writing for Odessa America says, "Reaction Tuesday night to the 4-2 decision by the ECISD [Ector County Independent School District] to adopt the National Council on Bible Curriculum in Public Schools was divided. And few would argue that there was a lack of passion from either side of the fence."

According to Tonisha Johnson of WRCB-TV Chattaoonga, "You might expect this from Republicans, but in this case Georgia Democrats are lobbying for legislation that would allow high school students to take Bible classes as an elective. Although it's a touchy subject, Democrats say this legislation if passed would do two things. One, protect schools that already have such classes and two help students get a greater understanding of English Literature, government and culture."

If you were to read all our nation?s founding documents, what percent of these contain direct quotes from the Bible? Is it

• None
• One-tenth
• One-fourth
• One-third

During the month of February, we are giving away two copies of Four Centuries of American Education by David Barton. For hundreds of years, imparting the three essential elements of religion, morality, and knowledge was the core of America's educational system. In recent decades, secularization of education has become the new American paradigm. In this fascinating book, learn about the effects of both philosophies as well as our early educational heroes. So, how do you register for your chance to win one of these outstanding books?